PORTSMOUTH — The Memorial Bridge Illumination committee is hoping to announce an important fundraising plateau within the next few weeks toward their goal of $200,000 to illuminate the new Memorial Bridge.

While no definite amount has been provided for what the committee has raised to date through fundraising efforts and outreach, committee members report strong community support and enthusiasm for the project, according to committee member Jon Di Gesu.

While previously the committee thought about $80,000 would be the priciest option of what could be done for lighting, estimates have since risen to between $80,000 and $200,000.

The increase in needed funds has to do with the cost of bringing the lighting and wiring to the top of the towers to create the desired downward lighting, The center lift span is also included and would be illuminated when the span is either lifted or lowered.

In November, as they kicked off fundraising efforts at a meeting at the Kittery Town Hall, the committee had hoped to raise the $80,000 by the end of 2012. It is now believed the needed funds can be raised by the end of March so as to be on schedule for the bridge’s opening this July.

The two options discussed both include LED lighting that would be aimed downward toward the structure rather than upward into the sky eliminating added light pollution to the nightscape.

Described in an article by Foster’s on Nov. 21, “option 1, will see the Veteran’s Plaque on the bridge illuminated along with both bridge towers and piers with white, dimmable LED lights. The $60,000 would provide five years worth of operations funding for the bridge. Option 2, the $80,000 mark, will bring additional energy savings along with color lighting that can be changed as appropriate in addition to the actions mentioned for $60,000.”

Tax deductible pledges may be sent to, Rose Eppard, 129 Daniel St., Portsmouth, N.H. 03801. Eppard can also be reached at eppard@usa.net.